IBTF SUBMISSIONS

The Author’s Alley category of the International Vendors’ Market is dedicated to books and literature and will open to the general public from Wednesday, July 29, through Saturday, August 1, 2026, in the Benton Convention Center in downtown Winston-Salem.

This form includes the Vendor Booth Application and Vendor Contract. Market rules, regulations, and award information will be emailed to selected applicants.
●  (Authors Alley Early Bird Rate) Vendor booth $250.00/Corner booth $350.00
●   (After April 30, 2026)  Vendor booth $300.00/Corner booth $400.00 

SUBMIT

The 20th biennial IBTF will offer a wide range of over 100 theatrical performances, including a selection of new works and Black classics performed by International Black theatre companies at multiple venues throughout Winston-Salem.

This specialized series, named after the Festival’s founder, presents historical biographies of known and unknown African Americans.

Early Submission Fee: $35, Deadline: August 31, 2025
Regular Submission Fee: $45, Deadline: November 30, 2025
Late Submission Fee: $55, December 31, 2025

This award will facilitate at least three rolling world premieres for the winning play at regional Black theatres and was created to assist in Black Theatres working together to discover and nurture the next generation of great African-American playwrights.

The Mabel P. Robinson Emerging Artist Awards will present six scholarships to acting, directing, and design students to attend the 2026 International Black Theatre Festival. Students will be presented with VIP passes to festival productions and the opportunity to network with Black Theatre royalty and industry professionals. Recipients will be honored at the IBTF Opening Night Gala on Monday, July 27, 2026. 

Submission deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026, at 11:59 pm.
There is no submission fee for this IBTF component.

The Tonya Pinkins IBTF Legacy Award, sponsored by Tony Award-winning actress Tonya Pinkins, will bring one acting, directing, or design theatre artist to the International Black Theatre Festival (July 27–August 1, 2026) in Winston-Salem to connect with industry professionals and be recognized at the festival’s Opening Night Gala.

The award includes VIP access to opening-day performances, the Celebrity Welcome Reception, and the Opening Night Gala, with housing and travel provided.

To apply, submit:

• Representative work samples in acting, directing, or design (video, written analysis, or production/design materials demonstrating your artistic approach)
• Resume
• Headshot
• Essay (600 words max on how IBTF would impact your career)
• Two references
• Website (if available)

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: March 30, 2026
*There is no application fee for the Tonya Pinkins Legacy Award.

Interactive workshops and seminars that enhance the skills of theatre professionals in their craft.

Youth from across the country take center stage and showcase their extraordinary and diverse talents before a panel of celebrity judges.

The vibrant International Vendors’ market with unique art, custom jewelry, exclusive clothing, hand-crafted items, and much more will open to the general public on Wednesday, July 29, through Saturday, August 1, 2026, in the Benton Convention Center in downtown Winston-Salem.

This form includes the Vendor Booth Application and Vendor Contract. Market rules, regulations, and award information will be emailed to selected vendors.

NO BOOTHS AVAILABLE

Over 30 original works written by renowned and aspiring playwrights are showcased. Professional actors will read for an audience of theatre professionals, scholars and the general public.

Celebrates independent filmmakers of Color for their enormous contributions to the industry.

In its continued effort to cultivate the next generation of Black theatre professionals, the Festival highlights collegiate theatre.